Define "cognitive overload" in the context of classroom instruction.

Cognitive overload refers to a situation where students receive excessive information all at once, which can overwhelm their ability to process and retain that knowledge effectively. When information is presented in a way that exceeds a learner’s capacity to understand or integrate new material, it can lead to confusion and a decrease in learning efficiency. This is particularly significant in classroom settings, where striking the right balance between information delivery and student comprehension is crucial for effective teaching.

In contrast to the other options, which address different challenges in the educational environment, the focus on being overwhelmed by excessive information directly connects to the cognitive processing limits of learners. For instance, providing too many resources, while potentially helpful, does not necessarily lead to cognitive overload unless those resources are not appropriately structured and integrated into the learning process. Similarly, distractions from multiple tasks or an overcrowded classroom can hinder learning, but the term "cognitive overload" specifically targets the issue of information saturation, making it more challenging for students to grasp core concepts.